Prop 206 supporters tell Arizona lawmakers hands off

PHOENIX (KSAZ) - In 2016, voters passed a boost to the minimum wage. It's now $10 an hour, and is scheduled to reach $12 an hour by 2020.

But even though the voters passed it with nearly 60 percent of the vote, some Republican lawmakers want a re-do.

Hands off 206 was the theme of the rally on Thursday. Supporters of the minimum wage hike say the Arizona legislature has no business trying to get voters to re-vote because they don't like it.

"In 2016, millions voted for 206. More popular than some who want to strip away our dignity," said Kevin Boda with Hands Off 206.

One of those lawmakers who is upset with the minimum wage hike is Republican Senator Sylvia Allen of Snowflake in northeastern Arizona.

"If we really want to help people, do better, we need cost of living to come down. Everybody benefits, but when government gets involved, the cost of living goes up," Sen. Allen said.

Sen. Allen says she wants to prevent the minimum wage from hitting $12 an hour by 2020, and cap it at $10.50 an hour instead. Actually, Sen. Allen says if she had it her way, there would be no minimum wage at all.

"Basically, philosophically, I believe it is a private contract business and employee. If you work for what they want, that is how it should be," Sen. Allen said.

Hands Off 206 backers say the voters have spoken and Republican lawmakers have no business messing with the minimum wage.

"Prop 206

In the Senate now, House Speaker JD Mesnard says he is ok with the prop but wants to make changes to certain aspects of sick-day reforms.